Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

1855

Publication Date

:

1866 - 1884

Average_duration

:

18:21

Franz Liszt's "Concerto pathétique (I & II), S. 258" is a two-movement piano concerto that was composed in 1865. The piece was premiered in Weimar, Germany on February 7, 1866, with Liszt himself as the soloist and the composer's pupil, Hans von Bülow, conducting the orchestra. The first movement of the concerto is marked "Andante," and it begins with a hauntingly beautiful melody played by the solo piano. The orchestra then enters with a somber theme that is developed throughout the movement. The piano and orchestra engage in a dialogue, with the piano often taking on a more virtuosic role. The movement ends with a return to the opening melody, played by the piano alone. The second movement is marked "Allegro energico," and it is a tour-de-force of Liszt's virtuosity. The movement begins with a fiery piano cadenza, followed by a driving theme played by the orchestra. The piano and orchestra engage in a thrilling back-and-forth, with the piano often taking on a more dominant role. The movement ends with a triumphant coda, with the piano and orchestra playing in unison. One of the characteristics of "Concerto pathétique" is its emotional intensity. The piece is filled with moments of great beauty and passion, as well as moments of darkness and despair. Liszt's use of harmony and orchestration is also noteworthy, with the orchestra often providing a rich and colorful backdrop for the solo piano. Overall, "Concerto pathétique" is a stunning example of Liszt's virtuosity and emotional depth. Its premiere was met with great acclaim, and it remains a beloved work in the piano concerto repertoire.

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